How to deal with the pressures of university: Five top tips
Thousands upon thousands of people across the country will be preparing to move to university, marking a brand new chapter in their life and in growing up. For many, it’ll be the first time living away from home and that can bring not only excitement, but nerves, fear, anxiety and many other emotions.
There are many pressures faced in university, whether that be socially or educationally, hitting deadlines, passing exams and generally just trying to juggle everything alongside paying your own way too.
Dealing with that pressure can be tricky. In fact, it can send many people sadly down a dark pathway, turning to the likes of drink and drugs in order to cope. In the case of the former, more and more young people have fallen into the trap of fentanyl, prescription drugs and even the likes of cocaine to try and stay on top of everything in their life. Visit any drug rehab, and you’ll see very similar stories.
However, there are better ways to manage and deal with the pressures of university life, and here are five top tips to do exactly that.
Prioritise Time Management
One of the biggest stress factors at university is time management. It’ll be the first time many will have to balance their academic work with other responsibilities, such as jobs, relationships, household chores and hobbies. Effective time management is key to this and a good place to start is with a schedule.
Use your schedule to allocate specific time slots to each aspect of your life and ensure you can fit in your lectures, studying, assignments and revision in as a priority.
Look to break down tasks into more manageable steps, rather than writing an essay in one sitting for example and ensure you have breaks bedded into your schedule for you to rest, relax and do other things that you love.
Seek Support When Needed
While you may be living with others and have dozens of classmates, university can also be isolating for many. In fact, government research found that many students struggle with loneliness and actually feel like they can’t admit it too.
Seeking support for any struggles you’re going through at university is so important. There are many people you can speak to across student support services, academic advisors, counselling services and student wellbeing centres, all of whom can be extremely helpful.
You also mustn’t forget that many others will be feeling the same as you too, and that a support network amongst peers can be both beneficial to you and beneficial to them too. Whether you’re struggling with your studies, feeling homesick, worried about money or experiencing any other form of anxiety, reach out and there will be ways in which you can start to ease those worries.
Maintain a Healthy Lifestyle
Something many students fall short with is maintaining a healthy lifestyle. Neglecting basic self care like this can lead to heightened stress, with junk food being proven to exacerbate mental health problems.
You need to make sure you have a healthy, balanced diet, while also ensuring you get enough sleep, exercise and do take the time to prioritise self care, whether that be spending an hour concentrating on your mental health or heading down to the gym, taking a yoga class or doing the things you love.
Practice Mindfulness and Relaxation Techniques
In fact, mindfulness and relaxation techniques can be invaluable tools for managing the pressures of university life. It’s something more and more students are practising, taking the time to be present in the moment and focusing on thoughts and feelings without judgement.
Practising mindfulness regularly will help manage stress, improve concentration and enhance overall wellbeing. Take the time each day, even if it is for a few minutes to practise deep breathing exercises, yoga or meditation and you will feel the difference in the long run when it comes to managing your studies and the stresses they may cause.
Stay Connected with Your Passions and Interests
Finally, while academics are a significant part of university life, it’s important not to lose sight of your passions and interests outside of your studies. Engaging in hobbies, whether it’s playing a musical instrument, painting, writing, or participating in sports, provides a much-needed break from academic pressures and helps maintain a sense of balance.
Joining clubs or societies that align with your interests can also provide a social outlet and a sense of belonging. These activities offer an opportunity to connect with like-minded individuals, develop new skills, and enjoy experiences that enrich your university life. By making time for the things you love, you can keep your stress levels in check and ensure that university is not just about work but also about personal growth and enjoyment.
